2020 Volvo XC90 receives a slew of upgrades

From a new diesel plug-in hybrid powertrain to a revised front fascia, the 2020 Volvo XC90 receives some comprehensive updates in the UK.

Volvo has announced a slew of upgrades for the 2020 version of its flagship SUV, the XC90. On sale in the UK now, the 2020 XC90 receives revised styling, additional equipment, an updated T8 petrol plug-in hybrid powertrain, and becomes the first-ever Volvo to have the new B5 diesel plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The B5 powertrain combines Volvo's existing 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel motor with a 48V battery, a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS), and an integrated starter generator. Further, the standard 8-speed automatic gearbox has also been updated, which has resulted in an overall fuel-efficiency improvement by about 15 per cent. The XC90 B5 brings in another first for Volvo: a brake-by-wire system – a braking system controlled electronically. Volvo claims that the technological upgrades introduced on the B5 powertrain will soon be introduced on the petrol-hybrid powertrain as well. For now, the T8 petrol-hybrid has been given a higher capacity battery (from 10.4 to 11.8kWh), resulting in a longer electric driving range (from 34.9km to 46km).

In terms of styling changes, the 2020 XC90 features a heavily updated front fascia, thanks to a new grille, reworked lower bumper design, and smarter looking air intakes. The alloy wheels have also been redesigned for 2020. Moreover, all XC90 versions now come with integrated roof rails and dual integrated exhaust tailpipes as standard. Those opting for the R-Design variants will be greeted by additional body bits finished in a high-gloss black, like the door mirror casings, window frames, and roof rails. The Inscription grade continues to focus on chrome elements, with the installation of a new strip across the rear bumper. A handful of new paint finishes (Thunder Grey, Pebble Grey and Birch Light shades) are also part of the 2020 line-up.